Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering Japanese barbecue sauce recipes! When it comes to grilling and barbecuing, Japanese cuisine offers a unique fusion of flavors and techniques that will take your dishes to the next level. From classic teriyaki chicken skewers to spicy tofu steaks and grilled king crab legs, we’ve got you covered with a variety of sweet and savory glazes to elevate your BBQ game.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of Japanese barbecue sauces, from traditional yakiniku and yakitori recipes to innovative twists and fusion flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some inspiration, these 18 deliciously glazed dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Japanese Barbecue Glaze
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with these easy-to-make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. This classic recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Japanese barbecue glaze (available at Asian markets)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush skewers with the Japanese barbecue glaze mixture.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Beef Short Ribs in Yakiniku Sauce
This recipe combines the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of grilled beef short ribs with the rich, savory flavors of yakiniku sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1/2 cup yakiniku sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yakiniku sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with sesame oil.
4. Grill short ribs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush each rib with the yakiniku sauce mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso-Glazed Salmon with Barbecue Sauce Drizzle
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory fusion of Japanese and Southern flavors. This recipe combines the umami richness of miso glaze with the tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce for a truly unique dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, warm barbecue sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
7. Drizzle warmed barbecue sauce over the glazed salmon.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Japanese Barbecue Pork Belly (Buta no Kakuni)
This classic Japanese dish is a must-try for anyone who loves tender, flavorful pork belly. By slow-cooking the meat in a sweet and savory sauce, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, caramelized crust and a fall-apart texture that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly (about 2 inches thick)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake
– 1/4 cup mirin
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Add the pork belly, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Grilled Eggplant with Sweet Soy Barbecue Sauce
Grilled Eggplant with Sweet Soy Barbecue Sauce Recipe
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and savory twist on classic grilled eggplant! This recipe combines the tender texture of grilled eggplant with a rich and sticky sweet soy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup sweet soy barbecue sauce (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Sweet Soy Barbecue Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Brush grilled eggplant with sweet soy barbecue sauce during the last minute of grilling.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yakitori Chicken Thighs with Charred Scallions
Yakitori-style chicken thighs get a smoky twist with the addition of charred scallions, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup sake (or substitute with water)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large scallion, cut into 3-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sake, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
4. Meanwhile, grill scallion pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until charred and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve sliced chicken with charred scallions on top, garnished with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tofu Steaks with Japanese Barbecue Marinade
Elevate your vegetarian game with these flavorful and spicy tofu steaks, marinated in a bold Japanese-inspired barbecue sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into steak-like pieces
– 1/2 cup Japanese barbecue marinade (available at most Asian markets)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together Japanese barbecue marinade, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Add the tofu pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the tofu steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled King Crab Legs with Citrusy Barbecue Glaze
Grilled King Crab Legs with Citrusy Barbecue Glaze: Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy recipe that pairs succulent king crab legs with a zesty citrus glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king crab legs, thawed
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Brush the glaze onto both sides of the crab legs.
4. Place the crab legs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with additional glaze if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Barbecue-Glazed Mushroom and Vegetable Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these easy-to-make skewers, perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck. Sweet and smoky barbecue glaze brings out the natural flavors of tender mushrooms and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons barbecue glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread mushrooms, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until vegetables are tender.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush with barbecue glaze.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Japanese-Style Barbecue Ribs with Garlic Ginger Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Japanese cuisine with this unique twist on traditional barbecue ribs. The combination of sweet and savory garlic ginger glaze, rich soy sauce, and tender pork will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to make the glaze.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or bake ribs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. Brush glaze on ribs during last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Sauce
This mouthwatering recipe combines the flavors of the grill and a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying succulent grilled shrimp in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sweet and tangy barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss shrimp with the marinade mixture until coated evenly.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Brush grilled shrimp with sweet and tangy barbecue sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Barbecue-Glazed Duck Breast with Scallion Garnish
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring tender duck breast smothered in a rich barbecue glaze and garnished with crispy scallions.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place duck breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the duck.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced scallions and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve glazed duck breast with crispy scallion garnish on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Barbecue Drizzle
This refreshing summer treat combines the natural sweetness of grilled pineapple with a rich, caramelized barbecue drizzle. Perfect as a side dish or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pineapple slices.
4. Grill the pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. While the pineapple is grilling, combine barbecue sauce and water in a small saucepan.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
7. Remove pineapple from grill and drizzle with caramelized barbecue sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Barbecue Chicken Wings with Sesame Seeds
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with these sweet and savory chicken wings, smothered in a sticky barbecue sauce and finished with a crunchy sesame seed topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and ginger.
3. Add chicken wings and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove wings from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry wings in hot oil until crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together sesame seeds and a pinch of salt.
7. Toss fried chicken wings with sesame seed mixture and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Beef Tataki with Ponzu Barbecue Dressing
A classic Japanese-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of beef and ponzu sauce with a refreshing twist – perfect for a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tenderloin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar to create the marinade.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together ponzu sauce and barbecue sauce to create the Ponzu Barbecue Dressing.
5. Serve grilled beef with Ponzu Barbecue Dressing spooned over the top, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Miso Barbecue Butter
Elevate your summer BBQs with this sweet and savory twist on classic grilled corn. The tangy miso flavor pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, miso paste, honey, and smoked paprika until smooth.
3. Brush the miso butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Barbecue-Glazed Lamb Chops with Shiso Garnish
Elevate your lamb chops with a sweet and sticky barbecue glaze, perfectly balanced by the freshness of shiso leaves. This easy recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh shiso leaves (or substitute with basil or mint)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Brush lamb chops with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush glaze all over lamb chops.
6. Garnish with fresh shiso leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Barbecue Sauce Toss
This recipe combines the savory flavor of udon noodles with the sweet and tangy taste of barbecue sauce, creating a delicious and easy-to-make Asian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce and 2 tablespoons water. Pour sauce into the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked udon noodles with the vegetable mixture; toss to coat with the barbecue sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the flavors of Japan! This collection of 18 savory Japanese barbecue sauce recipes offers a variety of mouthwatering options, from classic teriyaki chicken skewers to grilled beef short ribs and miso-glazed salmon. Other highlights include pork belly, eggplant, tofu steaks, king crab legs, mushroom and vegetable skewers, and even duck breast and lamb chops. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and tangy or savory and spicy, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So go ahead, get grilling, and experience the deliciousness of Japanese barbecue!
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